Philadelphia Military Academy at Elverson
Philadelphia, PA
"Intellectus, Mores, et Obsequium"
The Verdict
Philadelphia Military Academy is one of fewer than a dozen public military high schools in the nation—a tuition-free pathway to discipline, leadership, and college readiness for Philadelphia's urban youth. Housed in the historic James Elverson Jr. School building (a 1930 Gothic Revival landmark on the National Register of Historic Places), PMA transforms young people through its Gold Star Army JROTC program, earning a 98% score on national evaluation and the coveted Honor Unit with Distinction.
Living by their motto "Honor and Loyalty," the school's mission is not to create soldiers, but citizens—cadets are not obligated to enlist, yet the military framework builds the character, accountability, and work ethic that opens doors to higher education and careers. 81% of graduates pursue postsecondary education.
About
A public military high school in Philadelphia offering a structured Army JROTC curriculum.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
developmental
Key Requirements
- Philadelphia School District special admission application
- Must be a Philadelphia resident
- Commitment to JROTC program participation
- Signed cadet and parent/guardian contract
- Interest in structured military-style learning environment
Admitted Student Profile
858
Avg SAT
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
Historic urban campus
Housing
N/A
Enrollment
273
Student:Teacher
13:1
Campus Life
Daily Schedule
The school day runs until 2:34 PM dismissal. Cadets wear uniforms daily and observe military courtesy, addressing teachers as 'sir' or 'ma'am.' Mondays feature Polo and Khaki uniform days, while Class A dress uniforms are worn on designated days. Full grooming standards apply—males must be clean-shaven with regulation haircuts. Only PMA/JROTC outer garments are authorized. Cell phones and electronic devices are restricted. The structured environment emphasizes accountability, with ID cards required at all times as part of the cadet uniform.
Discipline Model
The cadet discipline system enforces accountability through uniform inspections, detention for violations, and escalating consequences. Ten or more absences or tardies in a year can result in disenrollment. Cadets and families sign contracts assuming financial responsibility for issued uniforms and equipment. The Seven Army Values—Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage—form the ethical foundation. Leadership opportunities through rank advancement and drill competitions reward those who excel. The Commandant's office, led by COL J. Esteban Rodriguez (US Army, Ret.), enforces standards while building cadet leadership through the chain of command.
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
81% of graduates pursue postsecondary education
Where Graduates Go
JROTC program provides pathway to Army ROTC scholarships and service academy nominations through service-connected nomination slots
Hall of Fame
PMA Class of 2025
Recent graduates pursuing higher education and military careers—school founded in 2004, alumni still building their legacies
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
JROTC physical training integrated into the program. All cadets participate in drill competitions and physical fitness activities. Athletics program operates under PIAA District 12 regulations with mandatory CIPPE medical forms required for participation.
Facilities
Historic James Elverson Jr. School building—a three-story, eleven-bay Late Gothic Revival structure built 1929-1930, designed by Irwin T. Catharine and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. The castellated parapet and projecting central entrance pavilion reflect the building's distinguished architectural heritage. A 1954 addition expanded the campus. Athletic facilities support varsity competition in basketball, cross country, football, baseball, softball, and track programs.
External Ratings
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Official Federal Data Sources
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